Getting Away: When Was the Last Time?
Summer is here and it’s time for getting away. Vacation with the family or an overnight by yourself. I highly recommend both.
There is nothing quite like taking a break from your everyday routine. You need it; I need it! So think back, when was the last time you got away?
I recently had two trips away to see my kids. In April we traveled to Georgia to see our son and daughter-in-love. Then in June we traveled to Colorado to see our daughters and grandson. Wonderful times with family. Because I don’t see them often, I live in anticipation of getting together with them.
This summer and fall, I am looking at doing something more local—an overnight or two. I am sorely overdue for a personal retreat. No schedules—easy meals—and time. Time away alone to reflect and be still in God’s presence. The ability to take a walk or take a nap.
Have you ever taken a personal retreat?
If you’re not sure how to plan a personal retreat, or why you need one? Take a look at these articles I wrote:
Whether it is time at the shore, or a quiet hotel room, planning for a little time alone is healthy. It will refresh your soul and fill your reservoir for the next stage of your journey. A getaway shouldn’t be complicated. Think Simple.
A getaway shouldn't be complicated. Think Simple. #PersonalRetreat Click To TweetGetting Away Needn’t be Complicated
Easy meals, pack light, and go with a flexible heart.
With a hotel room or B&B, they may have a refrigerator available. You can pack these easy ideas:
Greek yogurt, sliced fruit, chicken salad, and a tossed salad.
Will you have access to a gas grill:
Pack boneless chicken slices or burger patties and serve with salad for a quick dinner. Or add some fresh vegetables to the grill such as asparagus, peppers and zucchini.
Or bring precooked chicken, salad, and fruit to make a super-easy dinner.
The idea behind a getaway is NO STRESS. So if that means picking up grinders and easy breakfast food on the way, do it.
The idea behind a getaway is NO STRESS. #Pause #PersonalRetreat Click To TweetTake a look at the area where you’re going ahead of time for ideas of things available to do. A pretty park. Places to walk. Can you bring a bicycle? A local eatery for one meal out. The closest coffee shop.
I know what you’re thinking…
I know what you’re thinking because I felt the same way the first time I went away. How can I leave my family? What about the kids? What about sports practice? What about….
What about My Family at Home?
Good question. I hope you have their blessing to go… they will benefit when you return because you are going to be filled up rather than drained down. This is what I have prepared ahead of time for my family:
Leave a crockpot full of meatballs, rolls, and a tub of salad mix.
Tack the number for the pizza delivery or other take-out options on the fridge.
Easy breakfast options like cereal, fruit, muffins or bagels.
They will do just fine! And so will you.
Does this sound like something you need too?
When was the last time you got away? #NeedAVacation #PersonalRetreat Click To TweetReply in the comments about your plans or dreams for your time away. And, I will pray it will be just what you need.
I will post more about my getaway too, once I go.
Jeanne
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Getaway Things for You:
So true! Thank you for the reminder that we have to stop, breath and recharge in His presence.
I can get so caught up in the doing, Tammy Sue. Then I begin to feel stressed that I am not doing enough for my part. He is reminding me that it’s His work. Taking that personal retreat resets my focus every time. Thanks for sharing your thoughts today
The family cottage in Boothbay, Maine…at the end of a dirt road, on a cliff, in the woods (with rather fierce mosquitoes) with a spectacular view…reading and hiking and not cooking…my favorite things!
Sounds like the perfect getaway, Donna.
Great reminder of how important getting away is for our soul.
Dawn, thank you for your comment. I can get so caught up in life that I need reminders. I need to be intentional about schedule getting away. Or too much time goes by without me realizing it.
I love the getaway with God idea.
So do I, Beckie. If Jesus needed time alone with His Father, so much more do we!! Thanks for sharing. Let me know how your getaway goes.
I’m leaving Saturday for a week at the beach with family, and I plan to REST! I’m leaving my work behind. Thank you for this reminder! Great post!
Crickett, so glad you are getting away with your family. What a great time you’ll have together. Good for you for making the decision to leave your work behind too. I can’t wait to hear about it when you return.
Thank you Jeanne. I enjoyed your post. We have a few trips planned. some for rest and some for work. I am considering at a monastery, praying if this is what I should do.
Jann, praying with you on this.Let me know how it goes.